Surfcasting

Any surfcasters here? I'm going to give it a try. I purchased a long (12') pole and long casting reel, and am going over the hill to the ocean soon. I always get bored at the beach, so I figured I'd find a way to make it more enjoyable.

I'd love to hear your stories of success, and failure. Any tips are greatly appreciated!

I've already been told that I don't need a pole that long, but most people telling me that were from back east. The people I see here at the beach have giant fishing poles, so I bought the biggest one I could find (feel free to make giant rod jokes). I only spent $70 on the rod & reel, so if I like the sport, and not the pole, I can easily relegate it to backup duty.